Vocalese Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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vocalese
[ˈvəʊkəliːz ]
Definition
musical style
Vocalese is a style of jazz singing in which words are added to instrumental compositions and songs, often using vocables and nonsensical syllables. It is characterized by intricate, fast-paced vocal improvisations that mimic the sounds of instruments. Vocalese requires a high level of technical skill and creativity from the vocalist.
Synonyms
vocal improvisation, wordless singing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vocalese |
Used in jazz music to describe a style where lyrics are added to existing instrumental solos. This technique often requires advanced vocal skills and is popular among jazz enthusiasts.
|
| vocal improvisation |
Refers to the spontaneous creation of melodies and rhythms with the voice, often in jazz, blues, or other improvisational music genres. It is less structured than vocalese and does not necessarily involve lyrics.
|
| wordless singing |
Describes singing without using any lyrics, focusing on melodies and vocal sounds. This can be found in various music styles, including classical, pop, and folk.
|
Examples of usage
- The singer amazed the audience with her virtuosic vocalese performance.
- In vocalese, the voice becomes an instrument in its own right.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Music History
- Prominent jazz musicians like Eddie Jefferson and Jon Hendricks are credited with developing early vocalese compositions.
- This musical style allows singers to imitate instruments, enhancing the vocal performance and bringing a new dimension to jazz.
- Vocalese often includes improvisation, which is a crucial element of jazz music.
Cultural Impact
- It has influenced many genres beyond jazz, including R&B and pop music, showcasing the versatility of the human voice.
- The art form has been celebrated in various competitions, emphasizing skill in both singing and lyrical creation.
- Vocalese performances have featured in major festivals and events, bringing together diverse musical traditions.
Psychology of Music
- Singing with lyrics can create stronger emotional connections than purely instrumental performances.
- Listeners often engage more with vocal music because lyrics can tell stories and convey complex emotions.
- Research shows that the vocalization of music can stimulate brain areas involved in both language and music processing.
Notable Works
- One famous vocalese piece is 'Take the 'A' Train' as sung by groups like the Singers Unlimited, combining intricate lyrics with a melodic line.
- A landmark album in vocalese history is 'Vocalese' by the Manhattan Transfer, showcasing complex arrangements and harmonies.
- Many pieces of instrumental jazz have since been adapted into vocalese versions, highlighting the creativity within the genre.
Origin of 'vocalese'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'vocalese' combines 'vocal' (relating to the human voice) and 'ease' (referring to a smooth style).
- It was popularized in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly in the jazz and bebop scenes.
- The concept exists in various forms across cultures, but the term specifically emerged in American jazz.
The term 'vocalese' originated in the 1950s as a combination of 'vocal' and 'scat', referring to the style of jazz singing that incorporates lyrics into instrumental jazz solos. Artists like Eddie Jefferson and Jon Hendricks popularized the vocalese style, which continues to be an innovative and challenging form of vocal jazz performance.
See also: multivocality, univocal, vocalic, vocalist, vocalization, vocalize, vocalized, vocalizer, vocalizing.